The Council Challenges Sunscreen Guide

07.02.14

The Environmental Working Group has updated its annual guide on sun care products, and the Personal Care Product Council is taking the group to task about “false and misleading statements about sunscreen products and their ingredients.”

“This year the Environmental Working Group (EWG) released its annual sunscreen report along with a sun safety campaign. While there are several points in the campaign that we agree with—mainly, ‘[o]ur hope is that sun protection will become as much of a habit as putting on your seatbelt,’ we are disappointed that, despite the extensive and growing body of credible science demonstrating the safety, efficacy and health benefits of sunscreens, EWG continues to make false and misleading statements about sunscreen products and their ingredients,” said Farah Ahmed, chair of the Sunscreen Committee at The Council in a statement. “Once again, EWG does not use formal, expert scientific evaluation in its report, and the report is not peer-reviewed. These confusing, unsubstantiated claims could actually discourage people from using sunscreen, putting themselves and their children at risk.”

According to Ahmed, “the EWG campaign raises false concerns about the safety of sunscreen sprays and powders. In its proposed rule, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) simply requested further information on the unique spray dosage form and proposed a few labeling changes. The Council and its member companies submitted significant data to address the Agency’s request. Scientists and dermatologists have expressed their support of sprays and powders and their desire to allow consumers access to these products. Until FDA makes its final decision, these sprays and powders can remain on the market and provide consumers with additional sunscreen choices.

The Council also takes issue with EWG’s spin on moisturizers with SPF, high SPFs and key ingredients in the category.

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